Title holders Harras Hodoud reached the Egyptian Cup last 16 after claiming a narrow and hard-fought 1-0 victory at Sinbalawein, who were relegated to the third division, on Friday. The Alexandria-based club struggled to break down a resilient Sinbalawein side until striker Ahmed Abdul-Ghani, their top scorer in the league with nine goals, spared their blushes on the stroke of halftime. He converted a penalty after being tripped by Sinbalawein defender Mohamed Reda. The hosts could have grabbed the equalizer on several occasions in the second half but wasted some clear-cut opportunities. Hodoud, who won their first ever trophy last season when they claimed the Egyptian Cup title, will face another lower division side in Ragaa in the next round. Ragaa, who are based in Marsa Matrouh governorate, caused a huge upset after eliminating Police Union, who finished fifth in the Premier League this season. The normal and extra time ended goalless as Raga beat Police 5-3 on penalties to set up a meeting against Hodoud. "We have been practicing penalties in training for more than seven days before the game," Ragaa coach Tarek Mahgoub said. Mansoura, who played in the top flight this season but were relegated at the end, also bowed out after losing to Tanta on penalties.
Easy win for Ismaili Easy win Ismaili, third in the league, eased into the second round with a 3-0 home victory over Aluminum. Winger Ahmed Samir Farag opened the scoring after eight minutes when he capitalized on a mis-timed jump by the keeper to head home after a corner. Striker Ahmed Ali doubled their lead on 57 minutes with a powerful low shot and talented midfielder Mohab Saied completed the rout two minutes from time. Hosni Abd-Rabou, who returned to Ismaili after ending a two-year loan spell with UAE side Ahli, was given a standing ovation when he ran on the track during the game. The Egypt midfielder recently rubbished reports linking him with moves to Cairo duo Ahli and Zamalek. He is ineligible to play in Ismaili's cup games. Fellow Premier League teams Arab Contractors, Gaish, Ittihad and Masri have also booked a last 16-berth. League champions Ahli and runners-up Zamalek will play second-division sides Nabaroh and Fayoum respectively on Saturday. The Cairo duo will face each other on Wednesday if they overcome their opponents.
